Scanner with removable data storage media

Abstract

A stand alone flat bed scanner including a CPU, a removable storage medium, a control system displaying digital image and controls for controlling the mode of operation, degree of resolution, related parameters associated with generating, storing and displaying digital data. Ports for printers, accessories and other peripherals, an internal hard drive, and software adapted to display images directly on a television screen, including battery, and a pivotal handle for portable use in environments not having an external power supply.

We claim:  
     
       1. A method of scanning comprising: 
       providing a flatbed scanner having a housing, a scanning surface, a carriage positioned within the housing and adapted to reciprocate within the housing, and a digital camera positioned on the carriage;  
       selecting an object to be scanned;  
       selecting a scanning resolution;  
       moving the carriage within the housing;  
       scanning the object with the digital camera while moving the carriage;  
       converting visual information received by the digital camera from the object to digital signals representative of the visual information; and  
       storing said digital signals on a removable storage media positioned within said scanner housing.  
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1  further including: 
       providing a visual display of said digital signals.  
     
     
       3. The method of  claim 1  further including: 
       compressing said digital signals prior to storing said signals on said storage medium.  
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 1  wherein said scanning is performed by a contact image sensor. 
     
     
       5. The method of  claim 1  wherein said scanning is performed by a charge coupled device.